The Soulfest organizers introduced several changes to improve the festival’s experience. A significant reduction in performing bands—from 63 to 24—will create a more intimate and manageable environment. The organizers focused on improving previous sound issues, relocating the main stage to the meadow behind the grandstands and utilizing line array speakers for precise audio delivery. This setup is intended to prevent sound from bouncing back towards the audience, an issue that plagued last year’s event. Tate expressed confidence in this new configuration, stating, “We shouldn’t get any slap from that.”

Parking, another challenge from past events, will now be managed with prepaid parking for 3-day pass holders at the fairgrounds, while other attendees will use satellite parking locations. Communication with attendees will be prioritized to manage expectations and traffic flow effectively. Tate also addressed ticket pricing.

The festival’s new focus includes activities that encourage social interaction, such as a four-square tournament and pickleball courts, and the number of food vendors has been reduced from 19 to 11 to enhance service quality. Acknowledging the rising costs in the music industry, the organizers have committed over $200,000 to production to ensure quality without disturbing the town’s peace.

In the spirit of community involvement, the organizers have set up a volunteer program for local youth. This allows them to assist at the festival, potentially providing a way for them to participate without financial burden. The council’s unanimous approval of the entertainment license reflects strong support for the festival’s new direction and its potential benefits to the community.

Following the discussion on Soulfest, the council addressed other community event logistics, including the Black Veteran Services Memorial Day parade scheduled for May 26th. Christopher Demar outlined the parade route, noting a potential extension to include a presentation of a new memorial honoring military conflicts if completed in time. The council deliberated on logistical aspects, emphasizing the importance of honoring local veterans.

Another event approved by the council was the Joyful Noise Parade organized by the CapeMason Interfaith Council, set for April 21st. Featuring a New Orleans-style jazz band and performers like life-size puppets and jugglers, the parade aims to engage the community in celebrations aligned with Patriots Day and Earth Day. The council expressed enthusiasm for the event, highlighting its alignment with broader community celebrations.

In addition to event planning, the council addressed several utility-related issues. Verizon representatives presented requests for utility pole installations, acknowledging past procedural oversights and emphasizing safety concerns due to low-hanging lines. The council approved motions to allow the continuation of work.

The council also discussed a permit application from Eversource for a new utility pole installation related to a reconductoring project. Although procedural missteps were noted, the council ultimately approved the permit.

Further, the council considered the status of liquor licenses, including a request for a three-month extension for the dormant Seymour license. Concerns about the prolonged inactivity and community impact were raised. A council member stressed the need for progress. The motion was approved, allowing time for resolution.

Concluding the meeting, the council granted permissions for various business operations, including Better Body Foods’ request to work on restricted holidays and Madhouse Multi Arts’ vendor license application. Efforts focused on ensuring compliance with city regulations while supporting local business initiatives.